Local officials in Herat have announced the launch of a campaign to collect people who beg from the streets of the city.

According to a recent decision, all those begging will be gathered and provided with opportunities for support and employment. Authorities say that after identification and needs assessments, these individuals will be included in assistance and support programs.

Mohammad Yousuf Saeedi, spokesperson for the Herat governor, told TOLOnews: “The local administration of Herat province, in cooperation with relevant officials and institutions, has started efforts to collect beggars from the streets. We are confident that this phenomenon will be addressed, organized, and managed properly.”

Shah Baqir, who began begging nearly two months ago, said he had worked for over 40 years under various Afghan governments and is now retired. According to Baqir, the failure to receive his pension has left him destitute and forced him into begging.

He told TOLOnews: “One of my eyes is blind, and I have ten dependents in my household. I’ve been begging for two months and don’t know how to solve my problems.”

Several beggars in Herat say poverty and hunger have compelled them to beg. They are calling on the government and aid organizations for help.

Shah Bibi, a beggar in Herat, said: “We ask the government to help us and provide food assistance.”

Sabza, another beggar, said: “I have no guardian. My son struggles to support his family, and I have a paralyzed daughter whose care is my responsibility.”

This is not the first time Herat officials have launched such efforts. While the exact number of beggars in the city is unknown, their presence in the streets and intersections of Herat is visibly increasing.